So here it is, May 2010, and the first quarter is over. Many of us are asking ourselves: What’s the pulse of America right now? Should I buy a house or go on a great vacation? Is it getting any better?

The good news is yes! The Consumer Confidence Index, which had started rebounding in March, increased even further in April. The index now stands at 57.9 from 52.3 in March. The Expectations Index rose to 77.4 from 70.4 in March, indicating most Americans believe things are getting better. According to Lynn Franco, the Director of the Consumer Confidence Conference Board, the Index is now at its highest reading in about a year and a half. (Sep. 2008 it was at 61.4). Consumer concerns about the current business and labor market were also positive last month. The percentage of consumers expecting business conditions to improve over the next six months increased to 19.8% from 18%. Consumers were also more optimistic about the job outlook. The percentage anticipating more jobs rose to 18% from 14.1%.

Overall, Americans are feeling things are getting better, so go out there and splurge a little. Take that vacation, buy that new home (the interest rates are not going to get any better than this), buy that spring wardrobe. Let’s get this economy going again in Marin!

How do you feel about the overall economy? Do you agree with this sentiment?

Posted by:  Rick Smith